Important reality check:
Huawei never released an official Android Lollipop update for the MediaPad X1. The device shipped with Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean) and its last official firmware was Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) with EMUI 2.0/3.0.
If you see “Lollipop 5.0” mentioned online for this tablet, it refers to unofficial custom ROMs (e.g., CyanogenMod 12.1 or AOSP-based builds).
Custom ROM installation wipes all data. Use:
Before attempting any software modification, you must identify your specific model. The MediaPad X1 comes in two primary variants:
Warning: Installing firmware intended for the wrong model will result in a hard brick. Verify your model by going to Settings > About Device > Model Number.
You need a file typically named update.app or a zip archive containing the Lollipop firmware. Search specifically for the build number corresponding to your region (e.g., B### versions). XDA Developers forums are the most reliable repository for these legacy files. Look for firmware labeled "Android 5.0" or "Lollipop" specifically for the 701L or 701u.
Ensure battery >70% to prevent power loss during flashing.
Updating the Huawei MediaPad X1 7.0 to Android Lollipop is a viable technical project for users comfortable with modding. The process bypasses manufacturer restrictions via bootloader unlocking and custom recovery installation. While the update extends the device's software lifecycle and provides modern features like the ART runtime, it introduces stability risks inherent to unofficial firmware. Users are advised to weigh the benefits of the Lollipop UI and performance against the potential loss of camera fidelity and battery optimization.
The Huawei MediaPad X1 7.0 remains a cult classic among tablet enthusiasts due to its remarkably slim bezels and compact form factor. While it originally shipped with Android Jelly Bean, many users still look to refresh this device with the Android 5.0 Lollipop update to improve app compatibility and performance.
Updating this specific device requires a bit of preparation, as the rollout varied significantly between the 3G (7D-501u) and 4G (7D-503L) models. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to find and install the Lollipop update for your MediaPad X1. Prerequisites Before Installation huawei mediapad x1 70 update lollipop install
Before you begin the flashing process, ensure your device is ready to handle a system-level change:
Backup Your Data: Updating the firmware often requires a factory reset. Back up your photos, contacts, and app data to a PC or cloud storage.
Check Your Model Number: Go to Settings > About Tablet. Ensure you have the 7D-501u, 7D-501L, or 7D-503L. Flashing the wrong firmware can "brick" the device.
Battery Life: Charge your tablet to at least 60% to prevent it from powering off during the update.
MicroSD Card: You will need a high-quality MicroSD card with at least 4GB of free space. Step 1: Downloading the Correct Firmware
Huawei released the Lollipop update (EMUI 3.1) primarily for the Chinese and European variants. You will need to locate the "Update.app" file.
For 7D-503L (4G Variant): Look for firmware versions ending in B008 or B011. For 7D-501u (3G Variant): Look for the B010 or B011 builds.
Source: Since Huawei’s official legacy servers are often offline, your best bet is searching reputable archives like XDA Developers or the Huawei-File database. Step 2: Preparing the SD Card
Once you have downloaded the firmware (usually a ZIP or RAR file), extract it on your computer. Insert your MicroSD card into your PC. Important reality check: Huawei never released an official
Create a new folder in the root directory of the SD card named dload.
Copy the UPDATE.APP file from your extracted download into that dload folder.
Safely eject the SD card and insert it into your MediaPad X1. Step 3: Installing the Update (Local Update Method)
If your tablet is currently running and functional, this is the easiest method: Open the Settings menu. Navigate to Update or System Updates. Tap on Menu or Local Update.
The system should automatically detect the file in the "dload" folder.
Confirm the update. The device will reboot and begin the installation process. Step 4: The Force Upgrade Method (If Tablet is Bootlooping)
If your tablet won't boot or the local update fails, use the manual hardware trigger: Power off the MediaPad X1 completely.
Ensure the SD card with the dload/UPDATE.APP file is inserted.
Press and hold the Volume Up + Volume Down + Power buttons simultaneously. Huawei HiSuite (official backup tool) Manual copy of
When the Huawei logo appears, release the Power button but keep holding the Volume buttons.
The EMUI recovery screen should appear and start the "Software Install" automatically. Post-Update Tips
After the update to Lollipop finishes, the first boot can take up to 10 minutes. Do not force restart it.
Perform a Factory Reset: Once you reach the home screen, it is highly recommended to go to Settings > Backup & Reset > Factory Data Reset. This clears out old Jelly Bean/KitKat cache files that can cause "lag" on the new Lollipop system.
Check for Google Apps: Some Chinese firmware versions (B011) may not come with the Google Play Store. You may need to sideload the Google Services Framework or use the Huawei AppGallery to find an installer.
Updating to Lollipop gives the MediaPad X1 a much cleaner look thanks to EMUI 3.1, featuring better notification management and a more modern flat aesthetic. To make sure I give you the right files, could you tell me: Which exact model do you have (7D-501u or 7D-503L)? What country was the tablet originally purchased in?
To update your Huawei MediaPad X1 7.0 (models 7D-503L, 7D-501L, or 7D-501U) to Android 5.1.1 Lollipop, you can typically use an online over-the-air (OTA) update or a manual firmware flash. Method 1: Official Online Update (OTA)
This is the safest way to check for official software releases from Huawei. HUAWEI Global Connect your device to a stable Wi-Fi network to avoid data charges. and navigate to System & updates About tablet on older versions). Software update and then select Check for updates If a new version is found, tap Download and install
Your device will automatically restart once the installation is complete. Method 2: Manual Firmware Installation
If the OTA update isn't appearing, you can manually flash the official stock firmware.
Important note: Huawei never released an official Lollipop update for the MediaPad X1. It shipped with Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean and was later updated to 4.4.2 KitKat (official). Any Lollipop installation requires unlocking the bootloader, installing a custom recovery (TWRP), and flashing an unofficial CyanogenMod 12 / AOSP-based ROM.